The Sons of Italy-Columbus Lodge #2143 announce that pitcher Anthony Curran, a Massapequa resident, was named winner of the 2002 Joe Bermudez Award. The award is given to the Columbus Lodge softball player who leads both on and off the field. On the field, Curran's 27-home runs and 78-RBIs, and .696 batting average established new Columbus Lodge single season records. Off the field, Curran donates his time to the Easter Seals Society and the Ronald McDonald House of Long Island. "I do it for the kids," Curran stated.

Runner-up for the event was team captain Ed Bochynski, (a two-time Joe Bermudas Award winner). On the field, Bochynski batted a dazzling .607 and guided the Golden Lions to two tournament trophies in 2002. Off the field, this Farmingdale High School alumnus is a volunteer on the Business Advisory Committee for the Ronald McDonald House and organizes the Lodge's annual participation in the Telecare Telethon. Last February, he teamed up with the Roy White Foundation to established a fund for 9-11 victims and their families; Roy White played outfield for the NY Yankees for 14 seasons.

Third runner-up was N. Massapequa resident Dave Saviano, (last year's Joe Burmudez Award winner). On the field, Saviano set a new Columbus Lodge single season run scoring record with 68, while batting a dangerous .639. Off the field, Saviano has dedicated his time to various charitable organizations including the Arthritis Foundation, the Nassau County Special Olympics, and Telecare. Infielder Joe Pesale, who is an EMS volunteer with the N. Massapequa Fire department, received honorable mention.

The Columbus Lodge #2143, located behind the Stuart Thomas Manor on Boundry Avenue in So. Farmingdale, is a member of the Order Sons of Italy in America, a not-for-profit fraternal organization. The Lodge offers its members various social and recreational activities, as well as community and charity involvement. For more information on becoming part this organization one may call Steve LaScala at 735-2535.